Eiden walked confidently forward, accompanied by Kira. He spoke.
"Allow me to introduce myself properly," he said in a calm, almost noble voice. I am Eiden Valcrist, prince of the clan of supernatural hunters.
Miria remained silent for a moment, observing the young man's presence. He exuded both authority and a strange gentleness.
Alix, arms crossed, let out a slight admiring whistle.
—The prince himself, eh? And I thought that hunters were simple brutes without manners.
Eiden smiled.
—Some are, I'm not going to lie. But I have my methods... a little less barbaric Alix.
—If you say so.
His gaze then landed on Miria, more serious.
— If I came, it was also for another very specific reason. You must meet Lady Morena.
Miria blinked.
—Morena? Who is it again?
Alix answered for him, an ironic smile on her lips:
— We can say that she is... the queen of all wizards.
He paused, then continued in a more serious tone:
— With the threat of Fishlegs, your situation is delicate. You are the one who holds – even unconsciously – the key to the Grimoire of the Ancients. This puts you in danger, Miria.
Miria looked down slightly.
— I see... So I become a target.
Eiden nodded slowly.
—That's why my men are going to escort you to Lady Morena. There you will be safe.
He took a step back, ready to give his orders, but Kira held him back.
—Wait.
Kira approached Miria, her usually cold face softened by genuine concern.
She placed her hands on her friend's shoulders.
— Sorry, Miria… but I'm not going to come with you.
Miria stared at her, surprised.
- What ? For what ?
Kira glanced furtively at Eiden, who was waiting a few feet away.
"I need to sort out some things...with him first. Then I'll join you, I promise.
Miria felt a pang in her heart, but nodded slowly.
— Okay… but don't be long.
Kira gave a thin smile before hugging her briefly.
— Promise.
She then walked away, joining Eiden. He gave Miria a respectful nod before turning on his heel.
The supernatural hunters immediately formed a protective circle around Miria and Alix.
"Well," Alix breathed, adjusting her jacket. Looks like we get our own royal escort now.
Miria raised an eyebrow, a nervous smile on her lips.
— Or a bodyguard for magical fugitives, it depends on your point of view.
The hunters, silent and disciplined, began to walk. The black cloaks moved like shadows in the sunset light.
Miria took one last look behind her—at Kira and Eiden, already swallowed up by the trees.
A strange presentiment squeezed his heart.